Day of the Dead in Guanajuato, Mexico | 2025 Visit Guide

Last Updated on December 26, 2025

Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage city, offers a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish traditions during Dia de los Muertos. The festival traces its roots back to ancient Aztec beliefs, which have been interwoven with Catholic practices and modern local traditions. This history sets the stage for a celebration that is both deeply spiritual and a festive party!

Want to experience Mexico’s Day of the Dead?  Each region in Mexico has its own traditions for this holiday, including places like Patzcuaro and Oaxaca.

Guanajuato City has its own set of local customs and events that make the festival special. One such tradition is the “Ofrenda Monumental,” a multi-level altar staged on the steps of the local university on October 31. 

Guanajuato’s Dia de los Muertos is also marked by parades and contests.  The processions include participants dressed in fantastic costumes as well as parade floats.  Competitions include a Catrinas costume contest and the tapetes de muerte competition where school groups and artists create symbolic “carpets” made from colored sand, sawdust, flowers, seeds, and more. 

I first saw a photo of the steps of Guanajuato’s University decorated for Dia de los Muertos in National Geographic.  Since then I’d wanted to experience it myself, and finally had the chance to a few years ago.

In this guide I’ll share all my best tips from my trips to Guanajuato, so that you can plan your own amazing trip.  The city’s narrow, winding streets come alive with altars, music, and revelry, making it a wonderful time to visit!

Updated with 2025 festival events – jump to schedule

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In this Guide to Day of the Dead in Guanajuato 2025

Planning Tips | Festival Dates | Getting There | Where to Stay | Key Events | Full Schedule | Itinerary | Restaurants | Rooftop Bars | Local Customs

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Dia de los Muertos in Guanajuato Planning

When is Dia de los Muertos?

The dates of the Dia de los Muertos holiday in Mexico are October 31 to November 2. These dates align with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on the Catholic calendar, making it a significant period for both religious and cultural celebrations. 

Some cities stretch the celebrations to fill a full week or more, including preparation for the holiday and additional days of revelry.

In Guanajuato, the festival kicks off on October 29 and continues through November 2.  I recommend arriving a day or two early to visit sights, since the town will be very busy during the holiday. Or just plan on sightseeing by day and taking in the festival activities and ambience each evening!

Weather

Late October to early November offers mild to warm temperatures, ranging from 60 to 75°F. It’s a comfortable climate for outdoor activities, but I needed a light jacket for the evenings. Rain is less frequent during this time; packing a small umbrella might help keep rain away.

Getting to Guanajuato

Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens and nationals of many countries don’t need a visa for stays up to 180 days.

Airports

The closest airport to Guanajuato is Del Bajío International Airport (BJX), located about 30 minutes away. Major airlines operate frequent flights to BJX from various U.S. cities and from Mexico City, making it convenient for international travelers.

Check flights to BJX ⫸

Transportation Options

Upon arrival, you have several options to reach the city center:

• Taxi: Available 24/7, usually costing around $25-$35.  There is a taxi stand at the airport exit.  
• Shuttle Services: Pre-booked shuttles can take the hassle out of arrival, especially if you have a group or a lot of luggage.  Here is an option with easy online booking and good reviews.
• Uber: I ordered an Uber at the airport and paid $325MXN, around $19 US.  Once I saw how difficult it was to navigate the winding streets in Guanajuato, I definitely added a good tip!
• Car Rental: I recommend against this due to Guanajuato’s narrow one-way streets, pedestrian traffic, and lack of parking.  You won’t need a car to get around the city or festival events.  If you plan on traveling more in the region, I’d advise using the ADO bus.

Tips on Return Transportation to the Airport

I tried ordering an Uber back to the airport, but no drivers would accept the fare.  One finally accepted, then messaged that he was willing to do it for $500MXN; he asked that I cancel the ride and then pay with cash in the car.  While I’m sure it would have been fine, I opted to have my hotel hail a taxi instead.

That driver wanted $600MXN.   I talked him into $500 and then ended up giving the extra $100 as a tip.  (Around $35 US total.)

It’s possible the Uber fares will have increased since I visited. To check the current fare from the airport to the city center using Uber, open the app and enter your pickup location as Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) and your destination as Guanajuato Centro or the name of your hotel. The app will show you the estimated cost based on the time of day, demand, and vehicle type.

Note that Wi-Fi is available at the airport, but it’s best to have a SIM card or roaming data if you plan to book a ride immediately upon arrival.

Safety in Guanajuato

Overall, I’ve felt quite safe in Guanajuato City when I have visited, even at night.  Use common-sense safety practices, of course.  During the festival, Guanajuato’s streets are full of people including families with children.  

For the holiday, I recommend staying as close as possible to the main plaza and the city center.  Keep in mind that the winding, hilly side-streets can be confusing to navigate at night, especially after a few drinks. Just know your own comfort and activity level when selecting where to stay.

When traveling outside the city to other places in the region like San Miguel de Allende, use caution and check out the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories.  I rent a car and drive in some other parts of Mexico, but here I recommend that tourists travel by bus rather than renting a car.

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Where to Stay in Guanajuato

Hotel Options

Guanajuato offers a range of accommodations to fit various budgets and preferences. For a more upscale experience, you’ll find boutique hotels located in historic colonial buildings. Budget travelers can find hostels and inexpensive hotels.  Vacation rentals like Airbnb and VRBO are also available.

Booking Tips

• Early Reservations: Due to the popularity of Dia de los Muertos, hotels fill up quickly! I’d recommend booking 3-6 months in advance or more
• Location: Choose a hotel near the city center and the main square (Plaza de la Paz) for easy access to festival events and less walking after a long day of sightseeing.
• Amenities: Check for specific amenities like free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, and other services to make your stay more comfortable.

Top Hotels + Stays for Dia de Los Muertos in Guanajuato

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Day of the Dead in Guanajuato 2025: Key Events

Note that these dates and times are based on the celebration events and dates from last year. I will update as soon as information for this year is published.

Ofrenda Monumental at the University of Guanajuato

Kick off the festival on October 30 with a visit to the University of Guanajuato’s Central Building. The university unveils a grand altar known as the Ofrenda Monumental on its iconic steps. 

This multi-level altar honors key figures from Guanajuato and Mexican history, and each level represents a different natural element: earth, wind, fire, and water. The altar is adorned with traditional items like food, flowers, and candles, illuminating the structure with a warm glow.

Túnel de Tradición (Tunnel of Tradition)

During Dia de Muertos, some of the network of subterranean streets beneath Guanajuato, usually reserved for cars, are transformed into a cultural celebration center.

Beginning on October 29 and continuing through November 2, the tunnel is decorated with altars, floral carpets, local foods, pop-up bars serving mezcal and pulque, and souvenirs from the region.

Festival del “Perror” (Pet Costume Parade)

For a dose of scary cuteness, check out the parade of costumed pets on October 31 in the Tunel de Tradicion.

Calaveras and Catrinas Parade

On November 1, don’t miss the Desfile de Calaveras y Catrinas starting at Jardín Embajadores here on the map. The parade features hundreds of kids and adults in fantastic costumes, as well as floats and decorated vehicles.  It continues down Calle Sopena and Luiz Diaz Obregon to Avenida Benito Juarez, ending at Plaza de Las Ranas.

In the early evening you’ll see folks starting to line up along the parade route.  Just stake out your own spot and wait!

Catrinas Contest

After the parade on November 1, head to Plaza de las Ranas in the city’s historic center for the Catrinas contest. Participants dress up as catrinas and are judged based on creativity, originality, and costume accuracy. It’s a lively event – more like a fashion show – and showcases the talent and creativity of local students and residents.

The Catrina figure holds a significant place in Mexican culture, especially during Dia de los Muertos. Originating from a 1910 zinc etching by Mexican illustrator José Guadalupe Posada, La Catrina was initially a satirical portrayal of Mexican natives who aspired to adopt European aristocratic traditions. Over time, the figure has evolved into a symbol of the Day of the Dead, representing the equality of all people in death, regardless of social status.

Dressed in elegant clothing and often adorned with a feathered hat, the Catrina serves as a reminder that death is the great equalizer; it spares no one, rich or poor. The figure is now a staple in Day of the Dead celebrations, appearing in various forms such as dolls, paintings, and costumes. She embodies the Mexican people’s ability to laugh at death itself.

Tapetes de Muerte Exhibition on Calle Sopeña

On November 2, starting at 7:00 a.m., explore the city’s historic center as student groups and professional artists begin constructing the tapetes de muerte. These are intricate carpets made from colored sawdust, flower petals, and seeds, displaying themes related to life, death, and the holiday.

From the Plaza de la Paz, Calle Sopeña will be closed off to vehicle traffic down Luis González Obregón past the Jardín de la Unión.  It’s fun to watch the tapetes being made; be sure to check back later in the day to see the finished art.  

More tapetes may be found in the tunnels beneath the city on Miguel Hidalgo Street in what’s known as the “Túnel de Tradición.”  Check local information and signage, though, because these tunnels are usually for vehicle traffic only!

Culinary Contests

On the same day, November 2, attend the Alfeñiques and Pan de Muerto contests. Alfeñiques are traditional figures made from spun sugar traditional to Guanajuato, while pan de muerto is a special bread made only during the holiday.  (Don’t worry, though, no muertos are used to make it!)

These contests showcase the culinary creativity of Guanajuato’s residents and offer a look into traditional Mexican foods associated with the festival.

Panteón Santa Paula

This historic cemetery is a must-visit, especially during Dia de los Muertos. During the day, families clean and decorate graves, and at night, they gather for candlelit vigils. The pantheon is also known for its naturally formed mummies, which can be seen in the adjoining museum year-round.

It’s about a 22-minute walk from the Plaza de la Paz to the cemetery (1 mile or 1.4km).  We opted to Uber there because it’s uphill.  It’s a nice walk back if you visit during the day, and you get a chance to see more of the city.

The official schedule now shows evening hours at the Panteon each night (“Recorridos Nocturnos”) from 8PM to 9PM, which is new since I visited.

Mummies Exhibition

During some years, an exhibition featuring a number of mummies from the Santa Paula Pantheon is displayed in the city’s underground streets. If you won’t have time to visit the Museum of the Mummies, don’t miss this unique local sight.

Macabre Callejoneada

Each evening from October 29 to November 2, special Day of the Dead editions of the city’s callejoneadas depart from Teatro Juárez.

These walking tours, led by musicians and storytellers who are usually university students, follow the city’s alleys and staircases while weaving in legends tied to death, local ghosts, and Guanajuato’s mining past.  While these tours happen year-round, it’s extra special to be able to join them during this season when the performers are dressed in skull makeup in addition to their traditional costumes.

2025 Schedule

Here is the full 2025 schedule, with many events that fill the days of the festival. It is also available online.

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Dia de los Muertos in Guanajuato 2025 Itinerary Ideas

To help with planning your trip, I’m including some ideas for your itinerary! I’ve added the important festival events with a skull icon so you’re sure not to miss them.

Day 1: October 30

Arrive, drop your bags at the hotel, and explore the city!  

Head to the Plaza de la Paz to snap photos of the iconic Basilica de Guanajuato.  Visit the nearby steps of the University to see how the construction of the Ofrenda Monumental is progressing.

Grab dinner and make plans to head over to see the Ofrenda Monumental in time for the ceremony start at 8PM.

Day 2: October 31

Try to find the El Callejon del Beso (the Alley of the Kiss), the site of one of the legends of Guanajuato which would make even Shakespeare proud!

In the afternoon, walk up to the Museo de los Momias in the afternoon to see the city’s most famous attraction: over 150 mummies preserved naturally due to the climate and soil of the adjoining cemetery. 

If you need a coffee or bite to eat along the way, stop in Las Cuatro Puertas.

After visiting the museum, walk through the adjoining Santa Paula Pantheon to see the decorated graves, or stick around until 7PM when the schedule shows a night tour of the cemetery.

Or head back to town to see the Festival del “Perror” (pet costume parade) at 6PM and the DJ in the Tunel de Tradicion at 8PM.

Day 3: November 1

Keep in mind that November 1 is a holiday, so some things like museums might be closed.

Take a stroll down Avenida Benito Juarez and pop into the plazas and shops along the way.  You’ll see sellers offering flowers, sugar skulls, candy, souvenirs and other altar decorations for sale.

Catch the funicular up to see the Monumento al Pipila and take in amazing views of the city!  It’s especially beautiful at golden hour and sunset.  Rest for a minute at the bar here with great views and patio seating, Bar-Restaurante La Terraza Encantada, or the coffee shop Crepas & Waffles. 

Day 3: November 2

Start at the Plaza de la Paz and walk down Luis González Obregón to see the tapetes de muerte taking shape!  Keep an eye out for tapetes on the side streets too.

At 10am, stop in to see the Alfeñiquesand Pan de Muerto contests.

Have dinner and look for the Callejoneadas Macabras in the city Centro after dark. If you find one, follow along through the city streets as they sing and play! Check to see if there is live music or a show in the subterranean tunnels.

Remaining Days + More Itinerary Ideas

Visit some museums today: perhaps the Diego Rivera House Museum, Don Quixote Museum, Museo Ex Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera, or the Alhóndiga de Granaditas Regional Museum.

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Restaurant Ideas for Your Itinerary

With all that walking, sightseeing, and revelry, you’ll definitely be hungry! Here are some of the best restaurants in Guanajuato for your itinerary.

Rooftop Bars with City Views

Because Guanajuato and the Plaza de la Paz are so lovely at night, I recommend having a drink at one of these rooftop bars with a view!

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Local Customs and Etiquette

Do’s and Don’ts

While Dia de los Muertos is a festive occasion, it’s also a time of remembrance. Show respect when visiting altars and cemeteries. Avoid touching offerings on altars and graves, or taking photos at inappropriate moments.

Cultural Sensitivity

Understanding the significance of the festival’s symbols and rituals is crucial. For example, the scent of marigold flowers is believed to guide spirits. Being aware of these meanings will enrich your experience and help you engage respectfully with local traditions.

Social Norms

Guanajuato residents are generally warm and welcoming, especially during the festival. However, it’s good to remember basic social norms like saying “please” (por favor) and “thank you,” (gracias) and asking for permission before taking photos of people or private property.

Best Photo Spots

The historic Centro of Guanajuato offers many opportunities for capturing the essence of the city and holiday. The University of Guanajuato’s monumental altar and the Calaveras and Catrinas Parade are particularly photogenic. 

Don’t miss the views from the Pipila Monument, especially during golden hour and sunset, to capture the city’s architecture and colorful buildings.

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Ready to Experience Day of the Dead in Guanajuato?

Guanajuato’s Dia de los Muertos festival offers a unique experience that combines history, celebrations, and spirituality. From the monumental altar at the University of Guanajuato to the colorful Calaveras and Catrinas Parade, a visit here will help you understand how Guanajuato interprets this Mexican tradition.

The festival is meaningful occasion for remembrance and unity, reflected in the city’s unique local customs. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Guanajuato provides a Dia de los Muertos experience that is unforgettable!

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